If you have been thinking about starting therapy, you may have been wondering, “Is virtual therapy as effective as in-person?” You are not alone in this thought. With people’s lives getting busier and more people turning to online alternatives, this question is not only common but extremely valid.
As providers of virtual therapy in Ontario, our team can answer this question simply: yes. Virtual therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for many people and various issues.
We can explore throughout if virtual therapy is the right choice for you! In this blog post, we look at whether virtual therapy is as effective as in-person sessions, and reasons why you may want to consider trying a session with one of our therapists.
What is Virtual Therapy?
Virtual therapy means simply engaging with a trained mental health professional on an online platform, in an environment most convenient and comfortable to you. This may look like taking a therapy video call or even a phone call from the comfort of your home, car or any secure space. Virtual Counselling has become quite popular over the years, especially following the pandemic.
What Does Research Say About The Effectiveness of Virtual Therapy?
Multiple studies have shown that virtual therapy is highly effective in treating a wide range of concerns, including but not limited to:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Relationship issues
- Grief
- Trauma
- Life transitions
- Stress management
One study in particular found virtual CBT to be just as effective as in-person therapy; in fact, they found little to no difference in effectiveness when studying 54 randomized controlled trials, across 5463 patients and a variety of mental health concerns (Zandieh et al., 2024). Other research has echoed these results, with many others reporting the same level of effectiveness.
Why Is Online Therapy Popular?
So.. why is virtual therapy becoming so popular:
- Convenience: now more so than ever, people are getting busier. There is no need to travel anywhere and worry about all the traffic, or finding a parking spot. You can join a session simply from your own home, personal space or even your car on a work break.
- Comfort: we all like being in our own environment. When we feel comfortable, we are more relaxed and willing to open up. Some may even find it easier to open up about things in a familiar environment to them.
- Accessibility: virtual therapy provides mental health opportunities for those who live in further rural areas, who have mobility challenges, or even those more socially anxious. Online therapy removes those physical and emotional barriers that may have once stopped you.
- Consistency: given the convenience, virtual therapy is also easier to regularly attend and schedule. This ultimately helps you stay consistent… and consistency is key.
- Choice: with online therapy comes plenty of options for the perfect fit therapist. Virtual therapy provides access to a wide range of mental health support across different areas and specialties.
What are the Challenges of Online Therapy?
While virtual therapy is a great choice and has many benefits, that does not mean it is for everyone!
- Some prefer a connection that in-person, face-to-face sessions provide
- Technical difficulties (ie, wifi, sound)
- Lack of privacy
- Feeling less connected through the screen
How Do You Know That Online Therapy is Right for You?
Ask yourself these questions:
- Do you prefer to be comfortable and cozy when opening up?
- Do you have a private space where you can speak openly?
- Do you need something more accessible and easy?
- Do you prefer a variety of options?
If that sounds like you, virtual therapy may be the right fit! Depending on your preference and the issues at hand, you and your therapist can decide what’s best for you!
If you are kind of unsure and don’t know which you would prefer, that is totally okay! You can try both formats and see what fits best.
Is Virtual Therapy Still Real Therapy?
ABSOLUTELY! Sometimes people wonder whether virtual therapy is still therapy. Honestly, what matters the most is not where you are physically located, but rather the connection you build with your therapist and the work you do together! Healing and growth can occur both on and off the screen.
Rebound Total Health: Your Team For Virtual Therapy In Ontario
If you have been thinking about therapy but are not quite sure about the online option provided, now is a great time to look into it. Virtual therapy is not only flexible and convenient but also effective. This form of therapy meets you where you are at– both literally and figuratively.
The team at Rebound Total Health offers sessions for virtual therapy in Ontario. Curious about what virtual therapy may look like? Book a free consultation today or learn more about virtual counselling provided at Rebound.
We’re here to support you in whatever therapeutic format fits best!
For news and educational information, follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
References
Zandieh, S., Abdollahzadeh, S. M., Sadeghirad, B., Wang, L., McCabe, R. E., Yao, L., Inness, B. E., Pathak, A., Couban, R. J., Crandon, H., Torabiardakani, K., Bieling, P., & Busse, J. W. (2024). Therapist-guided remote versus in-person cognitive behavioural therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. CMAJ : Canadian Medical Association journal = journal de l’Association medicale canadienne, 196(10), E327–E340. Therapist-guided remote versus in-person cognitive behavioural therapy – is not only common but extremely valid.